Family and Friends, we remember and celebrate the life of William Han Koon Mark—a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, a respected member of his community, and above all, a true gentleman.

William was born on October 1, 1934, in Hi Hung, China, into a story shaped by perseverance, sacrifice, and quiet strength. His father, Ki Mark, came to Canada in 1902 as a railroad worker, later settling in Morden, Manitoba. There, he picked cabbage and strawberries for ten cents a day before opening a general store in 1920. Ki was known for his generosity and strong sense of community, earning a Lifetime Membership to the Freemason’s Hospital in recognition of his selflessness during the war. William inherited that same spirit of service and dignity.

William’s mother, Tin Ping, was a farmer in rural China. She raised William there until they were eventually reunited with Ki’s dream of a life in Canada. In 1934, Ki returned to China after a car accident, and William was born nine months later. In 1948, William immigrated to Canada, followed by his mother the next year. Even as a young man, William showed his commitment to community, helping with relief efforts during Manitoba’s “Flood of the Century” in 1951.

In 1958, William was accepted into the University of Manitoba. His entire family moved from Morden to Winnipeg to support his education—an act that spoke volumes about their closeness. In 1961, William graduated from the School of Pharmacy, beginning a career that would span over 40 years at Hollrex Pharmacy. He served countless people with kindness, professionalism, and integrity, retiring at the age of 65 after a lifetime of dedicated service.

But William’s greatest pride was his family. He was a loving husband to Anne, and a devoted father to Bien, John, Dawna, Beth, and Amanda. He cherished raising his youngest daughter, Amanda, and later found immense joy in watching his granddaughters Rorie and Angel grow up, along with Arielle, Rebecca, Angelica, Aurora, Juliette, and Chantelle. His family was his world.

William was known by all as a man of exceptional character. Anne often described him simply and perfectly: a gentleman. He never raised his voice. He never spoke harshly or used a curse word. He treated everyone with respect, humility, and grace. He was well respected not because he demanded it, but because he earned it through his actions.

William also had a lifelong love of gambling. From playing the stock market during his university years to frequenting the casinos of Winnipeg in retirement, he approached it with enthusiasm and curiosity. During COVID, that chapter quietly closed, as he lost interest and chose a slower, more peaceful pace of life.

William was predeceased by his parents, Ki and Tin Ping Mark, and his beloved daughters, Sandra and Florence Mark. On December 15, at 7:22 a.m., William passed peacefully at home, exactly as he wished.

Though we are deeply saddened by his loss, we take comfort in knowing that William lived a full and meaningful life—one defined by kindness, hard work, love for family, and unwavering integrity. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the family he cherished, and the quiet example he set for all of us.

William Han Koon Mark will forever remain in our hearts. Rest in peace.

A private family graveside service has been held at Brookside City Cemetery.